the zone extending from the limits of inshore waters (a few miles from the coast) to the edge of the continental shelf, but in this respect mainly referring to an ecological distinction which can be made between marine birds; i.e. 1) inshore, 2) offshore and 3) pelagic marine birds. Offshore and pelagic sea birds are considered real oceanic birds. Birds of the offshore group live continuously at sea when not attending their breeding places. Nevertheless they seldom wander much beyond the continental edge into the outmost or pelagic habitat, which is home to the pelagic (also listed) birds.